Activities
Shallow reef diving and snorkelling
The shallow reefs on the southside of the island boast rich biodiversity. Just meters from shore, they are within easy reach for snorkelling or shore entry SCUBA. Some of the iconic fish species you will be guaranteed to spot dozens of are Clark’s clownfish, wrasse, trumpetfish, blue tangs, butterflyfish, and angelfish. Of course, it provides the ideal habitat for our invertebrate, sponge and algae-loving green and hawksbill turtles.
The other prolific fish species we see are triggerfish, unicornfish, goatfish and lionfish. Both the soft and hard corals are astounding, entirely pristine and superabundant, sporting plenty of anemones and molluscs.
The northside’s reef system, instead of sandy seabeds and bright corals, shows a completely contrasting topography; rocky outcrops, seagrasses and distinctly diverse fauna. During our limited exploration in this area, we have discovered metre-long sea cucumbers, Picasso triggerfish and octopus, to name but a few. This stretch exhibits dense grasses, which offer a perfect calm, protected habitat for seahorses.
For the wreck dive enthusiasts, you’ll be thrilled to know that there is the prospect of discovering wrecks near the island. One possible ship is the Santo António, which wrecked off the island in 1644.
The shallow reefs around the island alone are enough to satisfy even the most seasoned divers.
Deep Dives
Only a handful of divers have plunged into our deeper reefs.
What can be seen in the shallower sections, although prolific, is an iota of the 150kms of reefs around the area.
So far we have discovered green turtles, hammerhead sharks, scorpionfish, massive lobsters, tiny nudibranchs, and superabundant corals.
These are just a few of the hundreds of reef animals we have happened upon. The multifariousness of fish and molluscs that surround the reefs seem infinite, and we have only just touched upon a scant section.
There is an incredible marine topography of pinnacles and caverns that has yet to be explored, that are no doubt the home of some exciting megafauna.
Mangroves
The unique ecosystem of the 25kms of mangroves off the mainland is just a 45-minute boat trip from Ilha do Fogo.
Here, there are likely incredible marine wonders such as dugongs, dolphins, sharks, and rays. The abundant communities of invertebrates and fish that seek sanctuary in the mangroves also provide sustenance for some of the bird and animal life.
Ornithologists and birdwatchers will be awed by the prolific birdlife around the mangrove areas, including pied kingfishers, whimbrels, plovers and a variety of raptors.
The landscape of the mangroves is breathtaking and the approach by boat will leave our guests wonderstruck.
Ethical Fishing
There is an opportunity for deep sea fishing expeditions from the island. Staying true to our ethics, we will only target species that are green-listed in order to eat them, which produces a lower carbon footprint than bringing over food from the mainland.
Yellowfin tuna, dorado (mahi mahi) and queen mackerel are tasty treats on the braai, and are passionately prepared by our chef.
Other activities
When you’re not busy diving or snorkelling, or indeed, relishing the rare peace and quiet, there are other activities on the island. Guests have access to our kayaks and the waters around the island are most often calm, offering an easy shore entry.
There are lots of walking paths through the enchanting forested area and plenty of places to leave the beaten path and explore. The flora and fauna are so unique and picturesque, that our guests will truly feel far away from life’s constant bustles.